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Local members of Congress seek public input on Syria

by Kitty Felde

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House Democratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra usually takes questions from reporters; tonight he wants to hear from constituents on Syria

An overwhelming majority of California lawmakers are undecided about whether the U.S. should take military action in Syria. One of those who has weighed in on the "leaning yes" side is Democratic Congressman Xavier Becerra of Los Angeles. Friday evening he'll open the phone lines to hear what his constituents think.

Becerra has said it would be "morally irresponsible not to do something" to respond to the Assad regime's alleged chemical weapons attack on civilians in Syria. But he says, any action should be targeted, limited and last less than 60 days. Becerra told MSNBC, "Sometimes the public doesn't agree with us, but hey, that's our responsibility. That's why we get elected."

Becerra will seek input from his constituents in a telephone town hall tonight (Sept. 6) from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Call-in: 1-877-229-8493; passcode: 14636; press *3 to ask a question or make a comment.)

Becerra voted against taking military action in Iraq. He says voting "yes" on military action in Syria sends the message that the U.S. draws a firm line when it comes to the use of chemical weapons. Becerra acknowledges that the American public has the right to be skeptical and has asked the Obama administration to make public all the evidence it can. The president is scheduled to address the nation Tuesday night.

L.A. Democrat Karen Bass also hosted a telephone town hall this week on Syria. She is undecided about whether the U.S. should take military action.

Previously in Represent!

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